SA calls for Royal Commission into Murray-Darling Basin allegations

Four months after Four Corners revealed allegations of water theft and corruption at the Murray-Darling Basin in New South Wales, the South Australian Government is advocating for a Royal Commission.

South Australian Premier, Jay Weatherill, wrote to the Prime Minister to request the establishment of a Royal Commission to inquire into the allegations and make recommendations to ensure the integrity of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

Minister for Water and the River Murray, Ian Hunter, said there are currently five separate investigations which have led to various jurisdictions and agencies passing the blame for the non-compliance at the basin.

“A Royal Commission is the only credible way we can investigate the depth and the breadth of these allegations and review the way we are managing one of our nation’s most precious resources,” Mr Hunter said.

“A Royal Commission would have the power to compel key witnesses and key individuals who are alleged to have rorted the basin system and stolen our water.

“South Australia has experienced extreme drought, threats to our food production and drinking water, and ultimately our livelihoods. We depend on the implementation of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan we must ensure it is delivered on time and in full.”